Final answer:
The claim that ADD and ADHD are two separate conditions is false; ADD is a subtype of ADHD, now considered an outdated term. ADHD includes various presentations with symptoms like inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, and is a lifelong disorder that can also be present in adulthood.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that Attention-Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are two separate conditions is false. ADD and ADHD are often used interchangeably, but in current clinical practice, ADD is considered an outdated term and a subtype of ADHD, the primary neurodevelopmental disorder. With ADHD, individuals experience symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, although some may not manifest hyperactive behaviors and were previously categorized as having ADD. Today, ADHD is recognized to vary in presentation, including predominately inattentive, predominately hyperactive/impulsive, and combined presentations. Understanding that ADHD can persist into adulthood is crucial, as it can affect various aspects of a person's life, including educational attainment, work performance, and social relationships. Moreover, those with ADHD can often have comorbid conditions, such as depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Several studies, including those from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), highlight the prevalence and impact of ADHD. These studies emphasize the importance of recognizing ADHD as a lifelong condition that can alter based on a person's developmental stage and other factors. Treatment typically involves medication, behavioral therapies, or a combination of both.